Firms have been advised to improve their business energy efficiency if they want to appeal to consumers.
Geri Stengel, founder of small business advice website Ventureneer, pointed out that industry research shows consumers tend to gravitate to companies that have good corporate social responsibility schemes in place, so firms should take note of this.
Writing in Marketing Profs, Ms Stengel said there are myriad ways in which firms can improve their business energy usage, such as changing light bulbs to more efficient alternatives and cutting down their use of air conditioning.
In addition, companies can consider installing dimmer switches, which can help reduce electricity use.
Ms Stengel also advised firms to demonstrate their commitment to environmentally-friendly issues by doing business with socially responsible suppliers.
"Retail customers, especially Generation Y and women, have indicated a strong preference - to the point of switching - for businesses that are socially responsible," she said.
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